Description
These Nut-Free Muesli Bars are a wholesome and delicious snack, perfect for school or on-the-go. Made with rolled oats, puffed rice, dried fruits, and seeds, they’re naturally sweetened with honey or maple syrup and bound together with coconut oil. No baking required, making them quick and easy to prepare while ensuring they are safe for those with nut allergies.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup puffed rice cereal
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut (unsweetened)
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy removal of the bars.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, puffed rice cereal, dried cranberries, chopped dried apricots, sunflower seeds, shredded coconut, and pumpkin seeds thoroughly.
- Heat wet ingredients: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine honey or maple syrup, coconut oil, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir continuously until the mixture is melted and fully combined, approximately 2–3 minutes.
- Combine mixtures: Pour the warm wet mixture over the dry ingredients and mix well until all ingredients are evenly coated and sticky.
- Press into pan: Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared pan. Press down firmly using the back of a spoon or a flat spatula to compact the mixture evenly.
- Set the bars: Refrigerate the pan for at least 2 hours, or until the mixture is firm and set.
- Cut and store: Once firm, lift the muesli mixture out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut into 12 bars. Store the bars in an airtight container in the fridge for freshness.
Notes
- You can swap the dried cranberries and apricots with other dried fruits like raisins, cherries, or blueberries based on preference.
- For a sweeter variation, drizzle melted dark chocolate on top of the bars before refrigerating.
- Ensure the bars are pressed firmly to help them hold their shape well.
- Store the bars in the fridge to maintain freshness, especially when using coconut oil, which solidifies when chilled.
